It's a start...

[Irving]

I have a 15 gallon barrel. They will weigh approx 120lbs when full. The handle really could only be used for when they are empty.
I paid $35 for my barrel. I think $20 is a great deal. For $100 you could have enough water on hand for one month for 3 people. Assuming you can stay at your place.
I like the barrel because it allows me to store 15 gallons in an area that takes up less space than in 2 liter bottles. Even though 2 liters are WAY more versatile.
Each rack of 2 liter bottles holds 8 bottles, so you're only looking at 4 gallons of water per rack.

Those military racks would be most ideal I think, if money were not an issue.

[hatidua]

I have a 15 gallon barrel. They will weigh approx 120lbs when full. The handle really could only be used for when they are empty.

I asked the guy when I bought my 15gl size barrels about the handles and he said they were fine to use when full but it seems like a lot of weight for that handle. I bought some coasters and built little carts to roll the full ones around on. The 15's really are a nice size, I just can't figure out how to get the cherry sweetener smell out of mine in spite of countless washings. -not that it's harmful or anything.